After such a promising start, it was shocking how fast the Bible study group fell apart. There had been a great mix of people—several from our low-income neighborhood, along with some suburban couples who were serving as volunteer urban … Continued
Why was the church staff referring to our team as their “insultants”? When our consulting team arrived at a Michigan church, the youth pastor eagerly escorted us to the basement that had been transformed into the coolest … Continued
“What do you think are the chances that Pastor Greg* will be able to continue as pastor of this church?” I asked Alex, the elder chair. Alex was the most respected spiritual leader in the church and fully committed to … Continued
Culture wars are nothing new. The feud between the farming culture and the ranching culture drives the storyline of the musical Oklahoma. That clash echoes a much earlier one between farmer Cain and rancher Abel (Genesis 4). Cultures … Continued
Maybe we needed her more than she needed us “Which should I do—become a bag lady or check myself into a mental hospital?” Florence was sitting on my front steps, her gray hair pulled into a topknot. I … Continued